Pulsed Neutron Core Analysis with Hermetic Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for analyzing subterranean core samples are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and costly, and they often expose the core to atmospheric conditions, leading to changes in core characteristics and fluid saturations, which renders the data less representative.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method utilizing a pulsed neutron generator, multiple detectors, a computed tomography scanner, an information processing device, and a transport system to analyze core samples, allowing for rapid and accurate measurement of neutron and gamma radiation flux, core density, and geometry, while maintaining the core in a hermetically sealed containment system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional core analysis methods are used, then sampling and measurement protocols can be followed, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The core sample is prepared and positioned in the analysis system before actual measurement begins. The hermetically sealed containment system is assembled in advance, and the core is pre-positioned within it, allowing immediate initiation of rapid neutron transmission measurements without time-consuming preparation steps during the analysis process itself.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical sampling and manual measurement protocols are replaced with automated neutron transmission imaging and computed tomography scanning systems. The pulsed neutron generator and detector array automatically capture transmission data across the entire core sample, eliminating manual subsampling and measurement operations.
2Measurement precision
If the core is removed from the inner barrel for analysis, then sampling sites can be selected and measurements can be taken, but the core is exposed to atmospheric conditions causing changes in characteristics and fluid saturations
Solution Approach 1:
The hermetically sealed containment system is designed with specific local properties to maintain reservoir conditions. The sealing mechanism and containment structure create a controlled environment that preserves fluid saturations and core characteristics by blocking atmospheric exposure, while still allowing neutron transmission measurements to be performed through the sealed barrier.
Solution Approach 2:
The hermetically sealed containment system acts as an intermediary barrier between the core sample and the atmospheric environment. This intermediate structure allows the core to remain isolated from harmful atmospheric effects while still enabling the neutron generator and detectors to perform measurements on the core sample without direct exposure.
3Loss of information
If traditional sampling methods are used, then representative sampling sites can be identified, but the data represents only specific sites rather than the entire core
Solution Approach 1:
The core sample is divided into multiple measurement zones across its entire length and cross-section. The pulsed neutron generator and detector array systematically measure different segments of the core, and the data is reconstructed to represent the entire core sample. This segmentation approach provides comprehensive coverage without requiring complex manual sampling protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The neutron transmission imaging and computed tomography scanning systems serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide rapid measurements, maintain hermetic sealing, capture entire core data, and enable repeated measurements. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate sampling and measurement protocols, simplifying the overall process while improving data completeness.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the acquisition of critical data rapidly and on the entire core sample, rather than specific sampling sites, while maintaining core characteristics and fluid saturations representative of reservoir conditions, thus improving the accuracy and usefulness of the data for well stimulation and completion decisions.
Implementation Method 1
the thermal neutrons being emitted neutrons that have been slowed down to thermal energies by passing through the core sample, and at least one epithermal neutron detector configured to generate a fourth count rate by counting a number of epithermal neutrons over the period of time, the epithermal neutrons being emitted neutrons that have been slowed down to epithermal energies by passing through the core sample but still have more energy than thermal neutrons
Implementation Method 2
at least one gamma detector configured to estimate a gamma pulse-height spectrum that results from emitted neutrons interacting with the core sample
Implementation Method 3
a computed tomography scanner in which a conical beam of X-rays is aimed at the core sample and which may be rotated around the sample
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for analyzing a core sample obtained from a subterranean formation includes a neutron generator, a plurality of detectors, a computed tomography scanner, an information processing device, and a transport system. The neutron generator can operate in a pulsed mode and emit neutrons into the core sample.